Model year record

2002 Jeep Liberty recalls & problems

The 2002 Jeep Liberty has 14 safety recalls and 1,808 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is air bags (551 complaints).

Recalls14safety recalls

Complaints1,808filed by owners

Crashes · fires174 · 21reported in complaints

Injuries · deaths183 · 4reported in complaints

2002 Jeep Liberty in an NHTSA crash test — NHTSA crash test

Safety recalls

Air bagsJan 28, 2015

Frontal

Recall 15V046000752,644 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (ODI)

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, to March 28, 2003, 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, to May 23 2003, and 2003-2004 Dodge Viper vehicles manufactured November 1, 2001, to June 30, 2004. Due to electrical noise beyond the tolerance of the air bag electronic control module (ECM), a component in the ECM may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.
Risk: Inadvertent deployment of the air bags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
Fix: Chrysler dealers will replace the air bag control module and side impact sensors as required, free of charge. This recall remedy was applied during earlier recall campaigns of these vehicles under safety recalls 12V527 and 13V040. All owners that have not had the recall repair performed under safety recalls 12V527 or 13V040 are strongly encouraged to have it performed and not wait for the final remedy to be deployed to the field. The recall began on December 29, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R06.

StructureJun 19, 2013

Structure

Recall 13V2520001,560,000 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (ODI)

Problem: Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The fuel tanks in these vehicles are at risk of failure and leakage in certain rear impacts.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Fix: Owners may take their vehicles to dealers and the dealers will perform a free inspection of the rear structure. On vehicles in the recall that are not equipped with a tow hitch, Chrysler will install a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles in the recall that are equipped with an aftermarket tow hitch, Chrysler will assess whether the hitch and surrounding areas show evidence of sharp edges or other puncture risks. If so, Chrysler will replace the tow hitch with a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles already equipped with a Chrysler designed tow hitch, Chrysler will inspect the area around the tow hitch installation, and if any installation issues are identified, they will be repaired free of charge. The recall began on August 1, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign numbers are N45 (for the Grand Cherokee vehicles) and N46 (for the Liberty vehicles).

Components: Structure; Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly

Air bagsNov 8, 2012

Frontal › Sensor/control module-inactive

Recall 12V527000744,822 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (ODI)

Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2002 and 2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, through March 28, 2003, and 2002 through 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, through May 23, 2003. A component in the air bag control module may fail causing the front airbags, side curtain airbags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.
Risk: Inadvertent deployment of the airbags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a supplemental jumper harness to the airbag control module, free of charge. Owners were notified of the recall by interim letter in January 2013. The remedy for affected Liberty vehicles is expected to be available in April 2013. The remedy for affected Grand Cherokee vehicles is expected to be available later in the year. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.

Components: Air bags › Frontal › Sensor/control module-inactive; Air bags

SuspensionOct 22, 2012

Front › Hub

Recall 12E047000892 vehicles

Problem: Timken is recalling certain non-formed, front wheel hubs, part number HA599467, which were sold to retail and automotive distributors in the automobile aftermarket as front wheel hub replacements designed only for use on certain 2002 through 2005, 4X4, non-ABS, Jeep Liberty vehicles. These front wheel hub units can be mistakenly sold to owners and installed on 4X2 versions of the Jeep vehicles.
Risk: If the non-formed hub unit is installed on a Jeep Liberty 4x2 model (which does not use an axle nut for hub retention), the vehicle wheel will not be secure and a front wheel separation may occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Timken has notified retail stores that have received the subject parts. The front wheel hubs will be replaced free of charge. Owners who may have purchased the affected units should contact Timken at 1-330-471-3693 for more information. This recall is being conducted by Timken, not Chrysler/Jeep.

SuspensionApr 9, 2009

Front › Control arm

Recall 09V11900043,489 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (ODI)

Problem: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 42,469 MY 2002-2003 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN SALT BELT STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KENTUCKY, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA , WISCONSIN AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH COULD LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING.
Risk: FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING CAPABILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT APRIL 24, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Exterior lightingApr 7, 2009

Exterior lighting

Recall 09E01200016,270 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (OVSC)

Problem: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

SuspensionAug 3, 2006

Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint

Recall 06V288000826,687 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (ODI)

Problem: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, THE CONSTANT TENSION FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS MAY EXPERIENCE CONTAMINATION. IF THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD WITH THIS CONDITION, THE BALL JOINT MAY EVENTUALLY EXPERIENCE WEAR AND LOOSENESS.
Risk: WHEN THE DRIVER CONTINUES TO OPERATE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS CONDITION, THE CONTAMINATION CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR AND POSSIBLY SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE CAUSING A LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Exterior lightingJul 17, 2006

Exterior lighting

Recall 06E0650003,593 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (OVSC)

Problem: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.

Exterior lightingMay 24, 2006

Exterior lighting

Recall 06E04900027,176 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (OVSC)

Problem: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Fix: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.

Exterior lightingMar 23, 2006

Exterior lighting

Recall 06E02600061,944 vehiclesopened after NHTSA action (OVSC)

Problem: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Fix: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

Service brakes, hydraulicMar 13, 2006

Service brakes, hydraulic

Recall 06E0220007,440 vehicles

Problem: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.
Risk: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix: AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.

SuspensionNov 10, 2003

Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint

Recall 03V460000336,000 vehicles

Problem: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS CAN EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION THAT CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE.
Risk: A BALL JOINT THATHAS SEPARATED FROM THE KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS WITH MODIFIED ASSEMBLIES AND HEAT SHIELDS ON VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN JANUARY 2, 2001 AND OCTOBER 4, 2002. ON VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN OCTOBER 5, 2002 AND MARCH 26, 2003, DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES (AND REPLACE THEM AS NECESSARY) AND INSTALL HEAT SHIELDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 15, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.

Air bagsDec 5, 2001

Frontal

Recall 01V373000102,000 vehicles

Problem: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. IN THE EVENT OF A SEVERE FRONTAL OFFSET COLLISION, SHARP EDGES ON THE POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE BRACKET COULD CUT THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR WIRING INSULATION CAUSING A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE WIRING.
Risk: THIS COULD DELAY THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG SYSTEM, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
Fix: DEALERS WILL WRAP THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR WIRE HARNESS WITH PROTECTIVE INSULATION TO PREVENT THE POSSIBILITY OF DAMAGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 18, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Unknown or otherOct 4, 2001

Unknown or other

Recall 01V31100072,000 vehicles

Problem: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE DRIVER'S SIDE KNEE BLOCKER TRIM PANEL ASSEMBLY CAN DISENGAGE, FALL, AND STARTLE THE OPERATOR.
Risk: THIS COULD STARTLE THE OPERATOR, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE KNEE BLOCKER TRIM PANEL. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 26, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Recall repairs are free at any authorised dealer. A recall listed here may already have been fixed on a particular car: enter its 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see open recalls.

Crash test ratings

2002 Jeep Liberty 4-DR.

OverallNot Rated

Frontal crash	Not Rated
Side crash	Not Rated
Rollover	★★★★★

2002 Jeep Liberty NHTSA side crash test — NHTSA side barrier crash test

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (New Car Assessment Program). Ratings are comparable only between vehicles of similar size and weight, and ratings from 2011 on use tougher tests than earlier years. Photos: NHTSA.

Fuel economy

Liberty 2WD

17mpg combined

City / highway	15 / 20 mpg
Fuel	Regular Gasoline

3.7 L · 6 cyl · Manual 5-spd · Rear-Wheel Drive · about $3,950/year to fuel

Liberty 4WD

17mpg combined

City / highway	14 / 20 mpg
Fuel	Regular Gasoline

3.7 L · 6 cyl · Manual 5-spd · 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive · about $3,950/year to fuel

Liberty 2WD

16mpg combined

City / highway	15 / 19 mpg
Fuel	Regular Gasoline

3.7 L · 6 cyl · Automatic 4-spd · Rear-Wheel Drive · about $4,200/year to fuel

Liberty 4WD

16mpg combined

City / highway	14 / 18 mpg
Fuel	Regular Gasoline

3.7 L · 6 cyl · Automatic 4-spd · 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive · about $4,200/year to fuel

EPA estimates from fueleconomy.gov for each engine and transmission sold. Annual cost is the EPA's estimate for 15,000 miles a year at its current fuel and electricity price assumptions. Your results will vary.

What owners report

Problem area	Complaints	Crashes	Fires	Injuries	Typical mileage*
Air bagsFrontal; Frontal › Sensor/control module	551	109	3	125	115,000 mi
SuspensionFront › Control arm › Lower ball joint; Front › Control arm › Upper ball joint	527	42	1	52	70,000 mi
Electrical systemIgnition; Wiring	118	0	9	2	91,190 mi
StructureBody; Frame and members	114	5	0	5	81,325 mi
Seat beltsFront › Buckle assembly; Front	112	14	0	15	60,000 mi
Power trainAutomatic transmission; Driveline › Differential unit	91	11	4	15	50,000 mi
Engine and engine coolingEngine; Cooling system	89	1	2	2	81,637 mi
Fuel/propulsion system	88	0	1	0	126,000 mi
Fuel system, gasolineDelivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings; Storage › Tank assembly	83	0	0	0	95,000 mi
SteeringHydraulic power assist system; Steering wheel/handle bar	78	14	0	7	78,015 mi
Engine	74	0	3	0	130,000 mi
VisibilityPower window devices and controls; Glass, side/rear	67	0	2	2	76,403 mi

*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.

Recent owner complaints

Steering
The lower ball joint on passenger side failed. Didn't notice any symptoms prior to it breaking. I understand that it was apparently under recall. It was repaired around the recall date but it failed again and is considered recurring failure.
Jul 5, 2026
Air bags
A couple years ago I had the airbag light come on when you come to find out there was a recall on my jeep. I had it took to the dealership, they supposedly fixed it now my airbag light is back on.
Apr 17, 2025
Suspension
At approximately 6:30 am 9/25/2024, I was transporting a friend to her home in a neighboring city. After ten minutes of travel, I exited a four lane bridge. As I slowed and set up for traffic negotiations, We heard a bang, like maybe tire blowout, I initiated a full stop to safety, disembarked vehicle to find that; THE RIGHT FRONT BALL JOINT HAD EXPERIENCED A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE! Thus, the tire was sliced the tire mount rim was deeply grooved. Had vehicle towed to my home. It is in the condition left by the towing company. So, I called my neighborhood dodge boys and wÃ s assured that "they were not obligated not interested in repairing this near calamity, for the "RECALLED LOWER BALL JOINT…
Sep 25, 2024
Exterior lighting › Brake lights
I install an after market right side tail light assembly on my Jeep liberty, light is âplug and playâ during check out I found the whole light assembly was improperly wired so I sent back to Amazon and ordered another from a different supplier when I received it, it was manufactured by the same company Eagle Eyes auto lamps. The safety issue that were experienced The tail light was on the bright element of the light bulb, the brake light was on the dim side of the same bulb The turn signal was the on the dim side of the bulb showing up not any brighter than a side marker light (very dim) Finally the reverse light was also wired on the dim side of the bulb and does not illuminate…
Jul 13, 2024
Service brakes
Well my 2002 jeep liberty has been messed up lately,it will just not crank so I thought it was the battery but it turned out to be the ignition switch also it did this off an on for about 6months ,the heat went out when I bought it and it will act as if it is overheating but it won't do anything for while then all of my windows have problems with the motor s in them the suspension, control arms I've had to change ,and the cruise control button will stick and keep going while you are driving it almost caused me to wreck on the interstate you have to turn the vehicle completely off once you get it to stop if you can get it to stop. out of all the vehicles I've had this is the first to take…
Dec 29, 2022
SuspensionCrash
Ball joints are coming apart and leaving me stranded on several occasions leading to costly repairs.
Jun 9, 2023
Service brakes
Canât go over 60 miles n the brake shake The gas pedal seem to be look at I purchase it 4 $3000 at a car lot last month
Aug 6, 2022
Engine
Manufacturing defect on EVAP canister, the nipple for the EVAP hose is too large for hose diameter, 3/8" hose cracks after a couple years when the rubber is not new, causing emissions test failure. Hose replaced several times.
Jan 14, 2004

Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.

NHTSA defect investigations

Jeep inadvertent air bag deploymentClosedLed to recall 15V043000
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of inadvertent air bag deployments (IABD) occurring after the recall remedy for NHTSA recall 12V-527 had been installed on recalled model year (MY ) 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty and MY 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).The recall was in response to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) investigation EA12-001 during which data provided by FCA indicate that the air bag circuitry inside the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module can degrade. ORC degradation can result in an inadvertent air bag deployment, without a crash or impact, while the vehicle is being operated.An IABD may involve frontal, side and belt pretensioner devices, and may result in injuries consisting of burns, cuts and bruises to the upper body region, and or the potential for…
RQ14001 · opened May 29, 2014 · closed Nov 13, 2015
Crash Related Fuel Tank FiresClosedLed to recall 13V252000
ODI has completed an extensive analysis of rear crash fuel tank system integrity data for the subject Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles (SVs).As of June 2013, ODI knew of 56 post-collision fatal fires, 28 non-fatal fires, and 6 fuel leak incidents (totaling 90 incidents, 75 fatalities and 58 injuries) involving the SVs.Based on this analysis, ODI issued a Recall Request Letter (RRL) on June 3, 2013 requesting that Chrysler recall the Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles due to the rate of fatal, non-fatal fire, and fuel leak incidents when compared to peer vehicles (compact and medium SUVs) built during the same time period.In the RRL, ODI described how the location of the aft-mounted fuel tank made the SVs vulnerable to rear impact crash fuel tank failures.During the analysis, besides the high speed/high severity crashes present in both the SV and peer vehicles, ODI…
EA12005 · opened Jun 12, 2012 · closed Nov 14, 2014
Inadvertent Air Bag DeploymentClosedLed to recall 12V527000
The investigation was opened based on reports of frontal air bag inadvertent deployments (ABIDs) on model year (MY) 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles.Data provided by Chrysler indicate that the air bag squib filter circuitry inside the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module can degrade and result in an inadvertent air bag deployment, without a crash or impact, while the vehicle is being operated on the roadway.As of Oct. 04, 2012, ODI is aware of 131 frontal ABIDs on the Jeep Liberty vehicles resulting in 62 injuries consisting of burns, cuts and bruises to the upper body region.There were no reports of loss of vehicle control or vehicle crashes.Some owners noted that the air bag warning light (ABL) and/or chime had activated just seconds prior to the air bag deployment, while others stated that they did not observe any prior ABL illumination.Chrysler's analysis found there were no…
EA12001 · opened Jan 23, 2012 · closed Feb 21, 2013
Inadvertent Air Bag DeploymentClosed
Based on analysis of Chrysler's response, and including ODI's consumer complaints, ODI has identified 87 reports of air bag inadvertent deployment incidents resulting in 50 alleged injuries.The injuries consists of burn/cuts and bruises to the upper body region.Forty-two (42) of the 87 incidents involved the driver frontal air bag, and the remaining 45 incidents involved both the driver and passenger frontal air bags inadvertently deploying without a crash.These incidents occurred both at vehicle startup or while the vehicle is being operated on the roadway.Some owners noted that the air bag warning light had illuminated, or had intermittently illuminated, and that this occurred just prior to the air bag deployment, while others stated they did not observe any illumination of the air bag light. Inspection of the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module conducted by Chrysler indicates…
PE11035 · opened Sep 23, 2011 · closed Jan 30, 2012
Rear Suspension Control Arm FailureClosed
During Preliminary Evaluation (PE11-013), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) conducted an analysis of consumer field data from its Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database and from complaint data submitted to ODI by Chrysler. ODI's analysis of VOQ data identified 13 complaints alleging failure of either the right or left rear lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.All of these complaints were associated with vehicles originally sold or registered in a salt belt state (for the purposes of this investigation, 'salt belt' includes Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).All of the complaints were associated with vehicles manufactured in model years (MY) 2004 or 2005. Three…
PE11013 · opened Apr 18, 2011 · closed Sep 15, 2011
UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONClosedLed to recall 09V119000
ON APRIL 7, 2009, CHRYSLER LLC SUBMITTED TO ODI A DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT INDICATING THAT IT WOULD RECALL APPROXIMATELY 42,469 MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2003 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES TO REMEDY A DEFECT THAT CAN RESULT IN UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING (09V-119).THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE BUILT FROM MAY 2002 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2002 AND ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, KENTUCKY, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN.ACCORDING TO CHRYSLER, THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING. CHRYSLER'S RECALL PROCEDURE INSTRUCTS DEALERS TO…
EA08008 · opened Apr 15, 2008 · closed Apr 16, 2009
UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONClosed
ODI HAS RECEIVED 22 COMPLAINTS OF UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION ON MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 JEEP LIBERTY 4X4 VEHICLES.THE SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT ON EITHER OF THE FRONT WHEELS CAN RESULT IN THE AFFECTED FRONT WHEEL COLLAPSING, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN VEHICLE DISABLEMENT AND CAUSING A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.THERE IS ONE COMPLAINT OF A FAILURE AT 75 MPH, 1 FAILURE AT 60 MPH, 3 FAILURES AT 40 MPH, 2 FAILURES AT 25 MPH, 7 FAILURES OCCURRING WHILE THE DRIVER WAS PULLING INTO THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC AND 2 FAILURES THAT OCCURRED WHEN THE DRIVER WAS ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN ACROSS THE FLOW OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC.ONE COMPLAINANT ALLEGED ALMOST BEING HIT BY AN ONCOMING TRUCK AS A RESULT OF THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY BEING DISABLED IN THE FLOW OF CROSSING TRAFFIC.ANOTHER REPORTED THE COLLAPSE OF THE FRONT RIGHT WHEEL WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SWERVE TO THE RIGHT, AS A RESULT OF…
PE07062 · opened Dec 17, 2007 · closed Apr 18, 2008
FRONT SUSPENSION BALL JOINT SEPARATIONClosedLed to recall 06V288000
ON JANUARY 6, 2006, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONIN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2004 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI SENT A LETTER TO THE MANUFACTURER ON FEBRUARY 7, 2006 REQUESTING INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.CONSEQUENTLY, THE INVESTIGATION WAS UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS ON MAY 31, 2006 AND THE RANGE OF SUBJECT VEHICLES UNDER INVESTIGATION WAS EXPANDED TO INCLUDE ALL MY 2002-2006 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI IS AWARE OF 566 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ALLEGING INVOLUNTARY FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATION IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI IS ALSO AWARE OF ONE NON-INJURY CRASH AND THREE ALLEGED INJURY INCIDENTS (TWO CRASH INCIDENTS AND ONE NON-CRASH INCIDENT) RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTING IN MINOR INJURIES.THE COMPLAINT COUNTS REPORTED…
EA06008 · opened May 31, 2006 · closed Aug 24, 2006
FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE MALFUNCTIONClosed
THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) HAS CLOSED THE INVESTIGATION OF FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLES IN MODEL YEAR 2002 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ON AUGUST 26, 2006, ODI OPENED PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE)05-046 TO INVESTIGATE COMPLAINT REPORTS THAT ALLEGED PROBLEMS WITH LATCHING AND UNLATCHING THE FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE.SEVERAL OF THE COMPLAINTS REPORTED THAT SOMETHING WAS BROKEN INSIDE OF THE BUCKLE.THE INVESTIGATION FOUND THAT SOME BUCKLES MAY EXPERIENCE FAILURE AND SEPARATION OF ONE, OR BOTH, OF THE INTERNAL LATCH GUIDE LEAF SPRINGS.LACK OF LEAF SPRING FUNCTION DOES NOT APPEAR TO INHIBIT BUCKLE OPERATION BECAUSE THERE IS ANOTHER SPRING THAT RETURNS THE RELEASE BUTTON.HOWEVER, A SEPARATED LEAF SPRING MAY IMPEDE THE MOTION OF THE BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTON IF IT BECOMES ENGAGED WITH MOVING PARTS.ANALYSIS OF THE AVAILABLE DATA SHOW THAT VEHICLES EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE BUCKLES WERE EARLY…
EA05022 · opened Dec 27, 2005 · closed Dec 21, 2006
FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE MALFUNCTIONClosed
THIS INVESTIGATION OF FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLES IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WAS OPENED ON AUGUST 26, 2005.THE BASIS FOR OPENING WAS SEVEN ODI REPORTS ALLEGING THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILED TO FUNCTION PROPERLY.THE COMPLAINANTS ALLEGED THE BUCKLES WOULD NOT LATCH OR WERE DIFFICULT TO LATCH OR UNLATCH.SOME OF THE COMPLAINANTS ALLEGED SOMETHING WAS BROKEN INSIDE OF THE BUCKLE AND OTHERS ALLEGED THAT THE BUTTON WAS STUCK DOWN AND HAD TO BE PRIED UP IN ORDER TO LATCH THE BUCKLE.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO EA05-022
PE05046 · opened Aug 26, 2005 · closed Dec 27, 2005